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WQED mini docs: Musical Mentors

Two award-winning mini documentaries from the WQED archives are compiled into this half-hour program. Madame Dawson’s Opera Company tells the story of Mary Cardwell Dawson who formed the National Negro Opera Company in 1941, opening doors and launching careers for African-Americans who had little access to classical music training. The feature also highlights efforts to restore the grand Victorian-style house in Pittsburgh where the opera company was founded. Prattis & The Piano recounts the career of Pittsburgh Symphony principal keyboardist Patricia Prattis Jennings, who in 1966 became the first African American woman to be awarded a full contract by a major American symphony orchestra, breaking decades of discrimination in the world of classical music.

WQED mini docs: Musical Mentors aired on Feb 18, 2016.

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It doesn’t look like much from the outside, but inside - Nied’s Hotel in Lawrenceville has evolved from a friendly neighborhood tavern to an entertainment destination. Country performer Slim Forsythe weaves viewers through this engaging, musical program featuring the Beagle Brothers, Molly Alphabet and Slim – both onstage and off.

Anxiety is among the most common, yet under-reported of all behavioral health issues. 40 million Americans suffer from anxiety and panic disorders – overwhelming worrying resulting in physical symptoms such as pounding heart, chest pain, shortness of breath and nausea. Through personal stories of those affected, this documentary examines the causes, diagnosis, prevention and treatment. It also spotlights innovative initiatives that explore the issue in vulnerable populations, such as efforts to address anxiety disorders among Carnegie Mellon University students.

Movie making in Pittsburgh boomed in recent years. But now that so many other states have film tax credits, production here is starting to slow. So how does Pittsburgh make movies a sustainable industry? We'll explore what happens next in the entertainment industry in Pittsburgh.

With a thriving main street, dozens of churches, and a prosperous middle class, Wilkinsburg was once among Pittsburgh's most popular suburbs. But changing times, a failing economy and crime damaged the borough and its citizens. Wilkinsburg is among many local communities fighting to come back – but it faces unique challenges. Neighboring districts have refused to partner with Wilkinsburg’s troubled high school. A referendum to bring liquor licenses into the long-dry borough has passed, but has also raised concerns.

Braddock, Pennsylvania was once a vibrant steel town with a population of more than 20,000. Today, fewer than 2200 people live there. Enter a team of community leaders and investors determined to spark new life. As the borough struggles to rebound from unemployment, poverty, crime and the devastating loss of its hospital, there are signs of revitalization and hope. But who benefits from the rebirth? This program explores Braddock through the eyes of residents and those working hard for change.

Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh are growing. More young adults are moving into the city, attracted by low housing costs, arts, culture and a trendy food scene. The city tops national lists on livability. But despite the high rankings, Pittsburgh lags in diversity and air quality. And some critics worry that a trendier Pittsburgh will drive up the cost of living and displace people with lower incomes. This program spotlights the positives in communities including Lawrenceville, Manchester and Larimer, while exploring possible ramifications of the negatives.